A non-profit organization focussed on conservation is trying to raise $294,000 in order to purchase and protect a section of forest along the Xwe´sam (Salmon) River, near Sayward.
The Nature Trust of British Columbia is specifically trying to purchase more than 105.6 acres (42.7 hectares) of at-risk floodplain forest.
“The risk of losing towering Sitka spruce, grand fir, western redcedar and Douglas-fir in this floodplain forest to development is real and the need to purchase and protect this vital habitat is urgent,” says Dr. Jasper Lament, CEO of the Nature Trust of BC.
“Trees in this forest are up to 120 years old and five Pacific salmon species, steelhead and blue-listed cutthroat throat depend on the Xwe’sam (Salmon) River.”
The Nature Trust of BC has been active since 1971 and since it began has been trying to purchase, protect and restore as much of the forests surrounding the Salmon River.
If they are able to raise the necessary funds, the Nature Trust will be able to expand upon the previously purchased Salmon River Estuary Conservation Complex, which would grow the conservation complex to 1,037.8 acres (420 hectares).
This area provides habitat for some of the province’s most iconic species, which includes great blue herons, the northern pygmy owl and the Roosevelt elk.
The Nature Trust of BC says that expanding this conservation area will increase the connectivity and resilience of the ecosystems within the river and its estuary.
In addition to the species that swell on land, the river is frequented by all five Pacific salmon species, along with steelhead and cutthroat trout.
“The time for nature is now—with immediate action, this vital habitat can be protected forever,” said the Nature Trust of BC in a media release.
“Every dollar donated will directly contribute to safeguarding this land for future generations and help ensure the long-term health of the Xwésam (Salmon) River ecosystem.”
Donations can be made online to help the Nature Trust reach their goal of $294,000 by April 9th. As of this publication, $47,672 has been raised.
